Old Dubai [walking]

A brilliant insight into the story of Dubai Creek and the city’s waterfront origins. Don’t miss the equally excellent adjacent Perfume House, focusing on the importance of scent in Emirati culture.

A delightful former trader’s house in Al Fahidi where you could spend hours sitting in the atmospheric courtyard beneath the shady tree, sipping a mint lemonade or sweet karak tea.

An atmospheric bazaar where dazzling chains, earrings, headdresses and more drip from the shop windows, and good deals can be had if you know what you’re looking for. It’s regulated by the Dubai government to ensure authenticity.

While some stores feel a little touristy, locals really do stock up on spices here too. From Iranian saffron to piles of chilis, cloves and spice mixes, the shopkeepers will be happy to tell you about their stock and how you can use the spices back home.

A desert city playground with a unique combination of Arabian culture, mega-malls and audacious architecture in a setting of year-round sun, sand and sea. Great family hotels and a ridiculous number of family attractions too.

This extraordinary, one-of-a-kind museum offers an insight into what a future world will look like – a bewildering showcase of cutting-edge technologies like AI, robotics, and virtual reality. Unmissable.

The world’s tallest building. Head up to the world’s highest outdoor observation deck for exceptional views of the city and desert beyond, and learn Dubai history along the way.

Dive down into the world’s deepest diving pool, and discover a bizarre, imaginary sunken world. Snorkelling and kids’ experiences are available too.

Get you up close to Dubai’s world-famous landmarks, and put the sprawling desert city in perspective with an unforgettable helicopter flip.

Cultural activities and meals – including wonderful cultural breakfasts and lunches in Al Fahidi – offer visitors the chance to understand Dubai from the perspective of Emirati’s who have grown up and live in the city.

Permanently moored in Dubai as a hotel, non-guests can join the entertaining and informative heritage tours led by the ship’s former Cruise Director. Learn about the most famous cruise liner in history and its role in the Golden Age of travel.

The UAE’s national museum, set in this striking building by architects Moriyama & Teshima, is dedicated to preserving and displaying the heritage of the UAE – everything from social and cultural, scientific and military. The location was specially chosen to be where the country was founded in 1971. Open daily, with free daily guide tours.

An outdoor park featuring over 500 different displays and sculptures, illuminated by millions of lights. Highlights include famous monuments like the Taj Mahal, a Dinosaur Park with life-sized dinosaur models, the Underwater World, and the Magic Park, with interactive exhibits and optical illusions.